From Incandescents to LEDs:

From Incandescents to LEDs:

Watt’s the

Deal?

Another valuable presentation from the world’s leading

green building network:

Incandescents are out because…

1. They’re inefficient.

Incandescents are out because…

1. They’re inefficient.

2. Alternatives aren’t expensive.

Incandescents are out because…

1. They’re inefficient.

2. Alternatives aren’t expensive.

3. The federal government says so.

Incandescents are out because…

1. They’re inefficient.

2. Alternatives aren’t crazy $$$.

3. The federal government says so.It’s true: As of Jan. 1, 2014, the

US government has legally phased out all incandescent

manufacturing and importing. Read more on the topic here.

Now, on to the BIG decision…

CFL or

LED?

First, some definitions:

• Watts: energy input

First, some definitions:

• Watts: energy input• Lumens: light output

First, some definitions:

• Watts: energy input• Lumens: light output• Footcandles: actual level of light to

reach surfaces

First, some definitions:

• Watts: energy input• Lumens: light output• Footcandles: actual level of light to

reach surfaces• Efficacy: ratio of light output to energy

input

Next: Are you over illuminated?

Check the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) Lighting Handbook here for recommended lumens for your

space type.

One more thing: Do you have the right ballasts?

Swap out outdated magnetic ballasts for electronic

alternatives and increase energy savings by 30%.

Swap out outdated magnetic ballasts for electronic

alternatives and increase energy savings by 30%!

Now, back to the big decision...

Traditional fluorescents have a higher efficacy than LEDs, according to DOE.

But they are not good in especially cold temperatures, and some blow long before

their expected duration.

But they are not good in especially cold temperatures, and some blow long before

their expected duration. You may have heard that CFLs spontaneously explode. This is

just an urban legend.Find detailed information here.

LEDs are up to 90% more energy efficient and have a

longer lifespan.

But they are not effective in especially hot temperatures and can flicker if the correct dimmer

isn’t installed.

But they are not effective in especially hot temperatures and can flicker if the correct dimmer

isn’t installed.For now, LEDs are a higher initial investment, too. But many

speculate that prices will drop in the coming 12 months.

Our best advice?

Consult a professional first to determine what light level you

really need.

We happen to know some great ones, like

Bruce Wilson in Coopersburg, PA!

Or browse our entire growing membership here.

Then, if you can and the location is appropriate, invest

in LEDs.

Otherwise, find a comparable CFL substitute.

Want to learn more about green building & connect with other environmental &

LEED professionals?

Become a free member of Poplar Network today!